Police ID skier missing on Whiteface Mountain

Constantinos “Danny” Filippidis

Police say Constantinos “Danny” Filippidis, 49, a firefighter from Toronto, was final seen on the Wilmington ski space Wednesday afternoon. He was reported missing after the lifts closed. Police say Filippidis was an intermediate skier and he went missing throughout a snowstorm that was making visibility poor.

Friday could have seemed like a daily day at Whiteface Mountain.

“There is a ton a ton of contemporary powder snow — I find it irresistible,” mentioned James Finnigan, a customer from Pennsylvania.

However the mountain — identified for bringing folks from throughout — has had some further company the previous couple of days. “Up to now we’ve over 140 folks concerned on this search by means of numerous businesses — state businesses, federal businesses, in addition to volunteers,” mentioned Jon Lundin with the Olympic Regional Growth Authority.

Rescuers have been on foot, on skis, and accompanied by search canines Friday. Even a drone was introduced in to assist. However with 20 inches of snowfall within the final seven days, officers say Filippidis may very well be wherever.

The mountain is residence to 86 trails — 73 are open now. It is a common vacation spot with this contemporary snow, which is why the ski patrol has been looking out the un-groomed territory. Authorities say in some spots the snow is chest deep. “That is an air to floor search,” Lundin mentioned.

Resort officers once more on Friday put the phrase out for skiers to maintain their eyes open.

“Actually, I believed I used to be going to go discover him — that didn’t occur,” Finnigan mentioned. He says he practices some fundamental guidelines whereas on the slopes to verify he stays secure. “Stick with the buddy system or have like walkie talkies, or by no means experience alone.”

In the meantime rescuers proceed their search. “We’re searching for something that may simply be out of the atypical that may assist us discover him,” Lundin mentioned.

Filippidis was final seen sporting a inexperienced ski jacket, black helmet and pink skis. He is described as 5-feet-10-inches tall, 220 kilos, with brown eyes and black hair. Anybody who has data or has seen Filippidis is requested to name New York State Police at 518-873-2750.